REPURPOSE WITH PURPOSE

In Africa, the theme of ‘repurposing with a purpose’ continues to gain momentum in the jewellery world, as designers transform discarded materials into stunning, meaningful pieces.

 

This movement reflects not only the continent's rich artistic heritage but also a commitment to sustainability and social impact. African jewellery designers are increasingly turning to materials such as scrap metal, recycled glass, and repurposed plastic to create unique, eco-friendly adornments that tell a story of renewal and resilience.

 

Repurposing old materials into jewellery is also an act of preserving cultural traditions.

 

Many African communities have a long history of using found objects —  like cowrie shells, bones, and beads—f ashioned into symbolic pieces representing fertility, status, or protection. Today, these practices are evolving to address modern environmental challenges, turning jewellery into a vehicle for raising awareness about waste reduction and responsible consumption.